Abstract [en]

Background Nutrition plays an important role in the lives of all people, both for health and for illness. Malnutrition has a negative impact on the human body, especially in the case of illness, as both mortality and complications increase in this condition. The Nurse has the highest level of nursing responsibility for the patient, where nutrition is an important part. Aim The purpose of this literature review was to describe how nurses perceive their nursing responsibility for the patient’s nutrition on a somatic ward. Method The research method was a literature review based on articles with both qualitative and quantitative stirring. Articles were analyzed according to Friberg (2012). Four themes submerged from the analysis: lack of knowledge, barriers to nutritional care, nurses’ attitudes, and nursing role. Results The Nurse generally considered that the nutrition of the patients was within their area of responsibility, however, they felt that they did not have enough knowledge to meet the needs, both in terms of nutrition knowledge and the national assessment tools available. After receiving education in nutrition, the nurse felt safer in this role. Time and staff shortages in combination with competing tasks were considered barriers to effective nutrition care. Attitudes towards nutrition and shortcomings in collaboration between occupational categories were also considered as obstacles. Conclusion More knowledge is needed about nutrition along with a distinct accountability for nurses. Also a better working interdisciplinary between doctors, nurses and dietitians. Nurses also wanted better meal options and more flexible time for patients to eat.